Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Australia Post is one of the country’s most trusted institutions, powering one of the largest delivery networks in Australia. As online shopping continues to scale, Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online.

That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

The traditional alternatives to home delivery are far from ideal. Buildings can rely on reception teams to manage deliveries, which introduces ongoing staffing costs and liability concerns. Parcels can be left in common areas, which creates security and aesthetic issues. Or residents are redirected to nearby Post Offices for collection, which shifts the inconvenience rather than solving it.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The data behind that frustration is significant. Nationally, around 9 per cent of deliveries are carded, meaning the recipient was not home and must collect the parcel from a Post Office. That figure reflects the national average reported between November 2025 and January 2026. In Melbourne, that figure rises to 20 per cent. In high-density living, it climbs again to 28 per cent. In other words, more than one in four deliveries in Melbourne apartment buildings results in a failed first attempt.

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

The mechanics are simple. When a parcel arrives, the resident receives a notification either through the Australia Post app or via SMS. They scan a QR code, use their one-time PIN and the compartment opens. The parcel is secure, accessible and removed from the lobby floor.

Located in thoughtfully chosen, easily accessible areas, including external building interfaces, mixed-use precincts or shared communal zones, Parcel Lockers enhance convenience without requiring internal building access or additional operational oversight.

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

This expansion represents Australia Post's largest investment in parcel infrastructure to date, building on momentum that began in 2011 when the first 24 Parcel Locker sites were introduced.

Today the Australia Post Parcel Locker network spans over 1,400 locations and more than 105,000 individual compartments, with major investment already underway to significantly expand the network further.

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

A Parcel Locker bank is free to install and free for residents to use. That removes one of the primary barriers to adoption and shifts the conversation from cost to integration.

Australia Post's preference is to engage with developers during the design phase. That allows Parcel Lockers to be located in a considered, publicly accessible space that works for residents and the broader community. Retrofit is possible, and existing buildings can be assessed, but the strongest results occur when Parcel Lockers are treated as part of the core services plan rather than a bolt-on solution.

While the iconic Australia Post red is widely recognised, Parcel Lockers can also be delivered in more muted palettes such as beige or green to align with architectural intent.

For developers, they offer a tech-forward amenity that meets modern expectations, a reduction in courier congestion and building-management load supporting lower emissions and better ESG outcomes, and a meaningful marketability advantage in high-density, eCommerce-active areas, all at no cost for installation and maintenance, with Australia Post funding the program aside from power access.

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

Generational shopping behaviours show strong, sustained growth across all cohorts. Millennials (27–43) led online spend in 2024, contributing nearly $25 billion. Baby Boomers (60–78) increased their online spend by 17.6 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing adopters. Gen Z (13–26) and Gen X (44–59) continue to lean on delivery services as part of their everyday shopping habits.

Internationally, uptake is even more pronounced. Overseas markets are seeing rapid adoption by both developers and consumers, positioning Parcel Lockers as standard infrastructure in many new residential projects. For Melbourne's development community, this signals a shift in baseline expectations. Just as secure bike storage and dedicated parcel rooms have become more common, integrated Parcel Locker networks may soon be viewed as part of the essential service mix.

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

Parcel Lockers aren't just a logistics fix. Developers invest heavily in lobby design, materials, lighting and landscaping to shape first impressions. Yet a stack of unattended parcels can undo that effort in an instant. Embedding parcel infrastructure early allows projects to respond to how people actually live today, supporting resident satisfaction, reducing operational strain and aligning with broader community and ESG outcomes.

As Belinda Quinn, Senior Transaction Manager – Retail &amp; Out of Home at Australia Post, puts it, residents increasingly expect delivery solutions that align with real life, are flexible, secure and available whenever they need them.

How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

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Work on the first Australian building designed by North American architect Frank Gehry nears after the construction giant Lend Lease won the bid to build the landmark undulating building at the University of Technology, Sydney. Billed as Sydney's most distinctive project since the Opera House, it will consist of 320,000 brown bricks, all laid by hand.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/gehr1.jpg">
Likened to a paper bag by some, the 12-storey faculty of business building will be the 83-year-old architect's first in Australia.
Excavation of the <a href="/news">Ultimo </a>site near the ABC is already under way, and construction of the tower for around 1,300 students and more than 300 academic staff has an early 2014 completion timeline.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/gehr2.jpg">
Gehry, who was reportedly unperturbed by the paper bag comparison, has described the building's internal structure as being like a "tree house", designed to encourage a sense of "creative play".
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/gehr3.jpg">
The 12-storey building is being built on the former Dairy Farmers site between the ABC Ultimo Centre and the Powerhouse Museum.
It will be named after Dr Chau Chak Wing, an Australian-Chinese businessman who donated $20 million for its construction and $5 million for scholarships.
Its a $180 million project, according to the UTS vice-chancellor, Ross Milbourne. The new building is part of a UTS campus master plan, estimated to cost a total of $1 billion. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Frank Gehry UTS building unwrapped as Lend Lease wins construction rights

<html><body>
The repeatedly graffitied, vandalised, run-down Moree fibro cost $15,000 in June, and five months later it's been sold at $74,500.
After the $15,000 renovation,  property investor Engelo Rumora had put the property back on the market for $80,000, offered with the tenants paying $180 a week.
It recently sold through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homehound.com.au/6+cooee+street+moree+nsw+2400/">Petta Melbourne from Artesian Real Estate</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cheapflicker.jpg">
"A total make-over has seen this property transformed from ordinary into extraordinary," her marketing said.
Rumora said his initial low purchase price was due to persistence and a little luck. The property had been on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertydealfinder.com.au/">Nathan Birch's Property Dealfinder site</a>.
"Originally I saw it on the market advertised for $80,000 and it needed a bit of work but I made some enquiries anyway," he told the September edition of the API magazine.
"Turned out the owner planned to renovate and do some work.
"A few months later it had dropped to $60,000 so I checked in with the agent again and made an offer to buy the renovated property for $35,000, and we started negotiations."
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cheapkitchen.jpg">
During negotiations the four-bedroom house was broken into and vandalised, at which point insurance money became involved. 
"I checked in again after a few weeks and the vendor was supposed to be getting an insurance payout … but the agent said he was having problems with the insurance company.
"That day I offered to take it off his hands for $15,000 cash. And he agreed."
According to Rumora, $15,000 was enough to get it back into shape.
"I don't install $10,000 kitchens and granite benchtops — this isn't Vaucluse. I stuck an $800 Bunnings kitchen in there and went down the budget route."
Rumora also opted for interior all-over spray-paint to slash the budget. A spray gun got the place painted for about $3,000.
"Normally painting a home is expensive because of the labour. You've got a different colour on the ceiling, the walls and the woodwork and that takes time. We covered the windows and floors and sprayed the lot," he said.
"Making around $40,000 profit is pretty sexy numbers," he said.
Property Observer ascertains its lastest price roughly matches its $70,000 sale price in 2007. It had sold at $10,080 in 1969. 
Rumora lists his other success stories <a target="_blank" href="https://www.engelorumora.com/">on his website</a>, where he recently announced he was taking his endeavours overseas to the USA.
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Australia's cheapest reno house resells at $74,500 – five months after its $15,000 purchase

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The popularity of home renovation reality shows like The Block and The Renovators has encouraged more Australians to undertake their own renovations putting them at risk of deadly diseases caused by exposure to asbestos fibres, according to Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia (ADFA).
The ADFA is warning of a third wave of victims and their families as part of  Asbestos Awareness Week, which is running with the slogan:  “Don’t play Renovation Roulette!”
The first wave was those working in mining and manufacturing exposed to raw fibres followed by workers who used asbestos products in the workplace (the second wave).
According to the ADFA, the case of women suffering from mesothelioma (an incurable asbestos-related cancer), are rising with the ADFA expecting these to spike over the next 40 years unless “Australians start taking seriously the dangers of asbestos when renovating or maintaining their homes”.
“With DIY renovations increasing partly due to the popularity of home renovation and lifestyle television programs and magazines, those thinking about renovating or home maintenance must visit asbestosawareness.com.au to learn where asbestos can be found in the home and how best to manage it,” says professor Nico van Zandwijk, director of ADFA.
The ADFA believes reality renovation shows have a moral obligation to include "substantial warnings” about asbestos for viewers and claims they have let viewers down by not having warnings.
Viewers of hit series The Block were warned by presenter Scott Cam of the dangers of asbestos in <a target="_blank" href="https://homes.ninemsn.com.au/theblock/updates/8457681/scott-cam-asbestos-and-the-block">this video</a>.
“Asbestos is an absolute killer and if you're thinking of renovating, make sure you get your place checked out by professionals," Cam said "If you do find something, make sure those professionals remove it."
Channel 10’s <a target="_blank" href="https://therenovatorstv.com.au/start-renovating.htm">The Renovators</a> did not appear to have any prominent asbestos warnings on its website.
The ADFA’s asbestos concerns have been echoed by Archicentre, the building design, inspection and advice service of The Australian Institute of Architects, which is also warning of the deadly dangers of lead paint
David Hallett, from Archicentre said the real risk of exposure to asbestos fibres and dust occurs with the demolition, drilling or cutting of products containing asbestos and in the case of lead paint the burning, sanding or stripping of paint can produce dangerous toxins.
"Tens of thousands of renovations take place every year often with families living in the home during the renovation placing people at danger unless the renovation is carried out safely,” says Hallett.
"It is vital for everyone to understand that once you disturb asbestos there are extreme health risks involved for home owners and their families in relation to the diseases which can be caused by asbestos fibres."
"Anyone undertaking renovations and living in their home at the same time with their children needs to be well informed about the dangers and extremely careful about how asbestos and lead paint is managed by contractors who may be carrying out the renovation works."
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause serious illnessesincluding malignant lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis
Most homes built in Australian between 1945 and 1987 would have been constructed using asbestos as insulation in the roof.
A complete ban on asbestos-containing material in Australia was introduced in 1991.
According to the ADFA, if asbestos is left undisturbed, it generally does not pose a health risk.
However a study of mesothelioma cases carried out by Western Australian Mesothelioma Register (from 1960 to 2008) showed that over a four year period (2005 and 2008), 8.4% of all men and 35.7% of all women diagnosed with mesothelioma were home renovators with renovations and maintenance being the main cause of the disease in women.
The study also noted that the most prevalent non-occupational exposure of people occurred during simple home renovations, with mesothelioma patients reporting having drilled or sanded asbestos cement walls, lifted linoleum floors and used asbestos cement sheeting to build sheds and fences, laundries and simple extensions, often with exposure limited to a single activity.
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Popularity of home renovation reality television shows creating deadly asbestos health risk: ADFA

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The production of residential lots on the outskirts of Melbourne is forecast to fall 27% annually over the next few years as demand remains subdued, according to a new report by BIS Shrapnel.
The research firm is forecasting annual lot production to fall from an average of 16,917 lots annually from 2007 to 2012 to just 12,340 between 2012 and 2017.
A 22% decline is anticipated for outer Adelaide, with average lot production of 2,962 lots between 2007 and 2012 falling to 2,320 over the next five years.
Recent and Forecast Lot Production
<table width="370" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
City/region
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" nowrap width="230">
Average lots produced annually
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139"></td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
2007-2012
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
2012-2017 forecast
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Outer Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
2,809
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
5,870
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Outer Melbourne
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
16,917
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
12,340
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Outer Brisbane
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
5,372
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
5,560
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Gold Coast
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
1,494
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
2,280
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Sunshine Coast
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
1,652
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
1,820
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Outer Adelaide
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
2,962
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
2,320
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="139">
Outer Perth  (includes Mandurah)
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="125">
7,633
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="105">
11,280
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Source: BIS Shrapnel
The forecast comes as Melbourne house-and-land developers continue to offer incentives in an effort to encourage buyers, despite <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/price-melbourne-land-at-its-true-value-and-buyers-will-come-australand/2012102357384">warnings from the likes of Australand's Rob Pradolin </a>that these only distort the market and can create financing problems for buyers.
“These two markets experienced the strongest residential rebound after the global financial crisis (GFC), and the consequent combination of high levels of land production and solid land price growth has meant that there is little pressure on the demand for new houses and land,” says report series author and senior manager Angie Zigomanis.
Victorian residential developers have also lost the added sweetener of the $13,000 new home bonus, which was available to first-home buyers and ended in June. According to BIS Shrapnel, the bonus has pulled forward demand.
In its annual report, developer Peet– which has 19% of its land bank in Victoria – notes that the Victorian residential market “weakened sharply” during the year, with the result that it has “restrained capital expenditure on some key Victorian projects”.
Peet has deferred development in two large, company-owned projects in Victoria until there are signs of improvement and also notes that Victorian buyers have had difficulty securing finance with the market having reached “the top of its cycle”.
“The declines in lot production in the Melbourne and Adelaide markets reflect activity falling from unsustainable record levels, while the weakness in the other cities were the result of excess supply, weak underlying demand, and constrained affordability after land prices had peaked in earlier years,” says Zigomanis.
“These issues are now starting to wash through, with the recent declines in interest rates expected to be the trigger for a pick-up in demand into 2013.
“Conversely, the factors that drove the downturns in the other cities now exist in Melbourne and Adelaide and it will be their turn for demand for land to experience a period of weakness,” he says.
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Demand for residential land to remain subdued on Melbourne and Adelaide fringes till 2017: BIS Shrapnel

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The rich and stylish of the Philippines have a new luxury brand development to buy into.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cielo5.jpg">
Acqua Iguazu is the fifth building of a US$41.4 million six-tower development in Manila, but it is the first collaboration between Philippine developer Century Properties, London interior design outfit "Yoo inspired by Starck" and British real estate magnate John Hitchcox.
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cielo2.jpg">
The top levels of the 56-floor tower will have an amenity deck designed by "Yoo inspired by Starck" and called the Cielo, which has a dining room, library, a movie room and fabulous pool.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cielo3.jpg">
There will be 400 apartments, ranging in size from a 26-square-metre pad to three-bedroom apartment over 115 square metres.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cielo4.jpg">
The average price is US $3,700 (A$3,560) a square metre. It is expected the property will realise US $85.5 million and US $365 million for the entire project. The development looks down on the Pasig river between Mandaluyong, a commercial city known for its shopping malls, and Makati, the business district of Manila. 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cielo.jpg">
Design features include a spherical accent crowning the tower, which references the sun and moon, and three show units themed as Minimal, Nature and Culture will be open for inspection from this week.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/cielo6.jpg">
The launch of Iguazu follows the successful sales of Acqua's previous four towers; the Niagara, Sutherland, Dettifoss andAcqua Livingstone, with interiors by MissoniHome.
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Yoo inspired by Starck luxury development launches in the Philippines

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Residential developers continue to offer incentives and rebates to encourage buyers of house and land packages and off-the-plan apartments.
These include offers from developers to pay mortgage repayments for a period of time, offers to pay the 5% builder deposit, discounts off the retail price of packages and cash rebates.
Developers increasing reliance on these incentives comes as the outlook for new detached housing remains weak with the latest building approval figures – forward indicators from the ABS show that approvals for detached houses rose just 1.2% from August to September and are down 1.8% year-on-year.
In contrast, apartment approvals rose 17.9% over September to be up 41.6% year-on-year.
Prospective buyers of house and land packages and off-the-plan apartments that come with rebates and incentives could face the possibility of having to raise additional financing due to lenders discounting the rebates from their valuations.
Here’s what’s currently being offered by developers across the country
$24,000 +from Devine
Devine is offering to <a href="https://www.devinemortgagebreak.com.au/" target="_blank">cover mortgage repayments</a> for up to 12 months for buyers of some of its home and land packages. The offer expires on November 30. The fine print says the repayments must be the minimum required repayments on a 30-year loan and interest only during construction. Devine's contribution will not continue for longer than 6 months after house settlement or 12 months after land settlement, whichever occurs first.  Repayments on a $360,000 loan with a 10% deposit over a 30 year term equates to monthly repayments of around $2,000. 
Up to $25,000 from Carlisle Homes at Aston
Carlisle Homes are offering house and land buyers a $15,000 discount for selected house and land packages at its <a href="https://www.carlislehomes.com.au/files/specialOffers/Aston_32k_Flyer.pdf" target="_blank">Aston development in Craigieburn</a> on Melbourne’s northern fringe. There is an extra $10,000 offered for buyers who purchase the Seville 29 or Pavillion 44 on display.
Up to $25,000 from Villawood
Villawood will pay the <a href="https://www.villawoodproperties.com/" target="_blank">5% builders deposit on new homes</a> in communities in Geelong and Melbourne up to a value of $25,000. The offer is for a limited time, but no expiration date is given.
 
Up to $50,000 off retail price from Porter Davis
As part of its <a href="https://www.porterdavis.com.au/content/pdfs/SpringStimulus_lifestyle.pdf" target="_blank">spring stimulus campaign</a>, Porter Davis is offering a $32,000 discount off the retail price of selected single-storey lifestyle homes and $50,000 off selected double-storey lifestyle homes.
 
From around $13,000 - Meriton to pay stamp duty on apartments
<a href="https://www.meriton.com.au/our-services/finance-services/stamp-duty-concessions-and-grants/" target="_blank">Apartment builder Meriton</a> is offering to pay the stamp duty on all apartments less any applicable government grants. The offer excludes apartments at Oceanvale (Warriewood) and Cascada (Sylvania). Prices for Meriton apartments start from around $400,000 which equates to stamp duty of $13,500 in NSW and $16,300 in Queensland
Double deposit up to $10,000 from Devine
Devine is offering to <a href="https://www.devine.com.au/contact-us.aspx?double=true" target="_blank">double a buyer’s deposit</a> on house and land packages up to a maximum of $10,000.The purchaser will still need to provide funds or obtain finance for the full balance purchase price in order to settle. 
Up to $10,000 in rebates from Satterley
<a href="https://www.satterley.com.au/www.satterley.com.au/go/special-rebate-offer/special-rebate-offer" target="_blank">WA developer Satterley</a> is offering rebates – cash and stamp duty – on house and land packages in a selection of its residential communities from $5,000 to $10,000.
If you are offering an incentive to buyers, send an email to <a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a> and we will include it on this list.
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From $10,000 to $50,000: Residential developers tempt buyers with incentives

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This week's episode of Grand Designs Australia features an house in Annandale that is being built on a small empty allotment overshadowed by a large building either side, one of which is heritage listed.
Brett and Rees are wanting to upsize but don’t want to leave the inner west-suburb of Sydney <a href="/news">Annandale</a>, so have chosen to build on the small empty allotment behind their apartment.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lifestyle.com.au/granddesigns/series-3/episode-6-annandale-urban-house.aspx">The Annandale house</a> has been in the works for eight years due to the possibility of the heritage-listed building next to it that may collapse.
The property will start with a basement car park with connecting stairs from the laneway leading up to the main entrance.
The hallway will be a glass atrium; the property will need both artificial and natural light due to the overshadowing buildings.
The large master bedroom will have its own kitchenette and a resort-style open-plan bathroom.
The top tier will play host to a spacious living and kitchen area.
The main feature of the house is set to be a central transparent plunge pool with jets.
Another bedroom is located near the front of the house next to a study.
Grand Designs host and Australian architect Peter Maddison says it is a compact home that must use every iota of space to its full advantage.
The median sale price for Annandale is $893,000, and the indicative gross rental yield is 3.9%.
A property located at 2 Collins Street, Annandale, is currently on the market with a listing price of $865,000. It last sold in 2008 for $425,000.
A property at 63 Young Street, Annandale, has an asking price of $920,000. It last sold in 2009 for $810,000.
Last week Grand Designs Australia featured a luxurious beach house in Bryon Bay.
The Annandale urban house episode will air on the Lifestyle channel on November 22 at 8.30pm.
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An overshadowed, small Annandale block the challenge for this week's Grand Designs

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As project managers, one of our roles is to report to our clients on the progress of their project.  We do this each Friday in a formal written report with photos. The report system proves to be a good record of progress and what happened throughout the project. Our clients get to keep the reports of course and they act as a handy reference tool, giving a snapshot of their project at every stage.
I thought it would make for interesting reading to take some extracts from our weekly client reports on this dual-occupancy project that we have recently completed in the Hunter region of NSW.
The project can be described as: source development site (corner block in Maitland, NSW), design, plan and build two free-standing three-bedroom, two-bathroom, single-storey villas and a two-lot Torrens title subdivision.
You’ll get a taste of the process we managed during this development. Last week we talked about <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/a-dual-occupancy-development-project-from-slab-to-kitchen/2012110857706" target="_blank">what happens from the pouring of the slab through to the kitchen</a>. The slab was poured on June 1, 2012.
3/8/12
The fit-out carpenter was on site this week with the window and door architraves have been installed. Unit 1 is almost complete and work will then move into the second unit today.  Your neighbours have commenced construction on the property next door.
10/8/12
The painters were on site this week, and the waterproofing has been completed to all wet areas: bathrooms, kitchen splashbacks and laundries. Next we will see tiling and baths being delivered and fitted.
17/8/12
The kitchens have been installed and the painting is almost completed. The tiles and the baths have arrived on site and will start to be installed early next week.
24/8/12
The painting is complete, and the tilers are on site this week. The baths have been installed, and the waterproofing around the showers is complete ready for tiling.
<img alt="chiversnov191" src="/images/stories/2012/11/chiversnov191.png" width="470" height="353">
31.8.12
This week the fit-out has commenced. The electrical and plumbing fittings are being installed. On discussing progress with the site manager, the following is expected over the coming weeks
<ul>
<li>Fit-out underway, finished mid next week</li>
<li>Concreter starting on Monday on the driveways</li>
<li>Carpet installed by the end of next week</li>
<li>Then blinds and shower screens the following week</li>
<li>First construction clean next week</li>
<li>Landscaping and fencing approximately the week of September 17</li>
<li>Practical completion inspection approximately three to four weeks, we are aiming for the week of September 17</li>
</ul>
7/9/12
This week the fit was completed and the driveways where poured. The first clean has taken place ready for the carpet to be laid. Landscaping should start to take place soon including the fencing between the units.
<img alt="chiversnov191" src="/images/stories/2012/11/chiversnov192.png" width="470">
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
14/9/12
Carpets went down this week and the landscaping is scheduled to start on Tuesday, September 18th. Property Bloom will now start to get the ball rolling on tenant procurement; however the occupation certificate is still a number of weeks away yet.
<img alt="chiversnov193" src="/images/stories/2012/11/chiversnov193.png" width="470" height="353">
21/9/12
We met with the leasing agent on site yesterday; we have a longstanding relationship with this agent and an exclusive Property Bloom discount structure in place for our clients.  Their appraisal will be received by mid-next week.
Meanwhile, landscaping has commenced and should be complete today. Fencing will commence on Monday leading up to a practical completion date of October 4.  We have booked the first open house for Friday, October 5, as all works will be completed by then.  We are working with the builder and our private certifier on the occupation certificate and expect them by October 12, which will allow tenants to move in after that date.
28/9/12
Landscaping and fencing is complete. The painter was completing his touch-ups today.
We have confirmed the sealant treatment on the driveways and they should be under way late next week. We are set for the practical completion inspection on Thursday, at which time I will walk through the development with the construction site manager and pick out anything we feel is incomplete or needs attention. We know of a few items that we are hoping will be complete prior to the inspection. These are:
<ul>
<li>Mirrored wardrobe doors (the builder’s supplier has been lagging)</li>
<li>Rainwater tank connection</li>
<li>Driveway sealant – to be done once all tradies are off site</li>
</ul>
To finish the week on a good note, our builder has agreed to tile the rear alfresco dining areas on each unit for free. This is great news and is valued at approximately $2,000 to $3,000. Previously they were to be colour sealed, however as a huge gesture of good faith, they have agreed to tile the entire areas after we complained of the durability of the sealant on other projects.
<img alt="chiversnov194" src="/images/stories/2012/11/chiversnov194.jpg" width="470" height="353">
5/10/12
The PC inspection took place on Thursday. There were still a number of minor items that require attention, which we will have sorted out by mid-next week.
The final inspection for occupation certificate will be next week. I have request this be pushed forward if possible.
12/10/12
The driveways have been sealed and look great. The occupation certificate inspection took place today and we expect our certifiers’ fast turnaround on the OCs.  Our contact at council who is assessing the subdivision, is away today so we will follow up again on Monday.  The first open house is set for 3pm today.
19/10/12  
The occupation certificate has been issued for both units and a second open house was held yesterday afternoon. From the first open we received a strong application. As a result of yesterday’s open,  we received another application of three nurses working at the hospital. The agent is processing their application.  The valuer for the bank is scheduled to conduct their inspection for the builder’s final payment. We anticipate the payment to go through by early next week, at which time we will arrange for handover of the keys so the agent can start the process for the new tenants to move in. 
26/10/112
Tenants are moving into unit 1 tomorrow. We negotiated with our builder to let the agent take the keys prior to settling the final account in good faith and as a favour to Property Bloom due to your bank’s valuer being a little slow in submitting their report and the bank releasing the final drawdown.
2/11/12 - Both units are now leased, with the new tenants moving into unit 2 today.  This is a fantastic result given the OC was issued a matter of days ago. This is now the  final, formal weekly update report, as the project has officially been completed. Of course, we will continue to oversee the registration of your subdivision and are available to assist with any matters to do with your project.  There is a 13-week builders warranty on any defect, so Property Bloom will ensure the agent schedules a follow-up inspection and ask the tenants if there are any issues.  We have ordered depreciation schedules.
 So there it is – this dual-occupancy project was under construction for just 20 weeks.  The building contract stated 26 weeks and we had a few weeks of rain in the early part of the construction phase that did impact on our timing a little, but we are extremely happy with this outcome.  It was a great result for our client as we had tenants in her properties within a few days of receiving the occupation certificates.
I hope this gives you view through the window of property developing. Admittedly this was a smooth project, very straight forward with few hiccups. We did need to iron out a few issues along the way and negotiated some savings for our client not only in dollar value but also in time saved.
Jo Chivers is director of <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development. Property Bloom is holding a small seminar next Tuesday in Brookvale in Sydney. Numbers are strictly limited, but if you think you may be ready to take the next step into a property development and would like to come along, then <a href="mailto:jo@propertybloom.com.au">please email Jo for details </a>
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Dual-occupancy, from slab start to completion in 20 weeks: Jo Chivers

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Women’s fashion identity Amanda Morgan has listed her Walter Burley Griffin-designed home in Toorak.
The property at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/residential/16a-glyndebourne-avenue-toorak/637511?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012&amp;utm_content=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012+Version+A+CID_604a870d06001272bf917665c8b1700d&amp;utm_source=Email%20marketing%20software&amp;utm_term=The%20home%20will%20be%20auctioned%20at%201pm%20on%20Saturday%2024th%20November%20by%20R%20T%20Edgar%20Boroondara" target="_blank">16a Glyndebourne Avenue, Toorak</a>, is known as Salter house after Stanley Salter, who commissioned the property in 1922. It was featured in The Australian Home Beautiful in 1927.
It goes to November 24 auction<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/residential/16a-glyndebourne-avenue-toorak/637511?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012&amp;utm_content=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012+Version+A+CID_604a870d06001272bf917665c8b1700d&amp;utm_source=Email%20marketing%20software&amp;utm_term=The%20home%20will%20be%20auctioned%20at%201pm%20on%20Saturday%2024th%20November%20by%20R%20T%20Edgar%20Boroondara" target="_blank"> </a> through R T Edgar Boroondara agent Simon Derham. It last traded at $1,082,500 in 2006. It's now a three-bedroom, three-bathroom house with bluestone terraces with heated waterfall saltwater pool/spa and luxuriant garden deck.
Morgan has owned several fashion franchises, along with being involved with well-known women’s fashion establishments Melrose in Brighton and Dominex in Toorak.
The house on its 642-square-metre block is being marketed as showing Walter Burley Griffin’s <a href="https://nla.gov.au/nla.pic-vn3919897" target="_blank">architectural simplicity </a>while incorporating many of his subtle innovations to take advantage of the home’s natural surroundings.
The heart of the project was arguably its internal courtyard, which architecture commentators described as a gesture adapted from his Prairie House experiments 20 years prior.
It comes with his “knitlock” brick method of construction, which has made his commissions known around the world.
Knitlock was patented in 1917, with a company headquartered at Griffin's Melbourne office formed to market it.
Walter Burley Griffin first settled in Sydney, forming a brief partnership with J Burcham Clamp, who had sought out a friendship with the Griffins in Chicago in about 1913.
However, the partnership was dissolved in 1915 when it became necessary for Griffin to move to Melbourne, as the Federal Capital Office, of which he was director, was in Melbourne.
Griffin rented an office on the seventh floor of 395 Collins Street.
His initial plans to build his patented knitlock construction met resistance from Malvern Council, which was slow to be convinced as to the suitability of the material for a home in the wealthy suburb of Toorak.
The council's procrastination delayed construction, so the Griffin Society records reveal  instead the Griffins sold the land in Kooyong Road to William R. Paling, who in turn commissioned Griffin to design his two-storey house in knitlock.
The Palings' neighbour was a <a href="/news">Toorak </a>property investor who became one of Griffin's best Melbourne clients. Mary Williams commissioned the rental flats Langi at the corner of Toorak and Lansell roads, Toorak.
Griffin's design for Stanley Salter led to designs of knitlock houses for Stanley's brother, Foster Salter in <a href="/news">Brighton</a>, and his brother-in-law, Alfred Ewins in <a href="/news">Ballarat</a>, although neither was built.
Other knitlock houses were built in <a href="/news">Canterbury </a>(1921), <a href="/news">Black Rock</a> (1923), <a href="/news">Surrey Hills </a>(1923), <a href="/news">Heidelberg</a> (1924) and <a href="/news">Woodend </a>(1929).
Knitlock was based on cheap manufacture, lightness and compactness for minimising transport, and on standard units assembled without hand fitting, cutting, bedding or plastering for speedy erection.
Much of the renovation was undertaken by Barbara Hocking, who recollected on its listing once that Griffin's original cottage in the mid-196os was terribly dilapidated.
"In those days it was normal to just tear houses like that down," Hocking recollected.
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Salter House, Walter Burley Griffin's knitlock-designed Toorak home, listed

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On the November 15 episode of Grand Designs, a couple with a property developer background is building a luxurious beach house in Bryon Bay.
Peter Maddison says the house has a distinct Balinese flavor.
The garage is located on the ground floor and has an exterior stone walkway that runs up the east side to the entry. The first floor has the three bedrooms, including the master bedroom, which has an outdoor bath and shower. The top floor consists of an open-plan kitchen and living area, which opens out to a sweeping view of the bay.
A lift services all three levels.
A swimming pool and spa are located at the rear of the block.
The upper structure of the house is made of a lightweight timber that sits on a heavier stone base.
Before building had started on the house, property developer Max tells Maddison the house is going to cost around $2 million to $2.5 million to build.
Max also says the block is one of the most north-east-facing blocks in Australia, meaning it will get early sunlight.
<a href="/news">Byron Bay</a> is a beachside town in the far north-eastern corner of New South Wales.
According to RP Data, the median house price for Bryon Bay is $660,000. Prices dropped 11.1% in the past year and fell 17.5% in the past five years.
The median rent for houses is $550 per week.
A property located on <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.raineandhorne.com.au/properties/147189" target="_blank">12 Beachcomber Drive in Byron Bay</a> is currently listed for $1.85 million. It has been listed for 569 days and was last sold in 2003 for $1.27 million.
Another property located at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-byron+bay-107948191" target="_blank"> 37 Beachcomber Drive</a> is currently listed for $2.25 million. It has been listed for 1,260 days.
Last week’s episode featured a feng shui expert guiding the development of a <a href="/news">Warburton </a>home.
The Byron Bay Beach house episode will air on the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lifestyle.com.au/granddesigns/">LifeStyle channel</a> on November 15 at 8.30pm.
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